AUSTIN, Texas (Feb. 17, 2023) – Texas Woman's softball opened conference play with a vengeance. On Friday, Feb. 17, the Pioneers recorded double wins against St. Edward's.
 
In game one, the Pioneers took an early lead in the first inning after Kennedy Marlow scored the first run of the afternoon. Later, Delaney Boley swung far and long for a homer, bringing the final score to 2-0.
 
Alyssa LeBlanc (3-2) threw for seven innings tonight and recorded ten strikeouts over the Hilltoppers.
 
Following game one, the Pioneers channeled their energy into a close game two, but made sure to close out strong in the final two innings, 3-2.
 
All three pitchers were utilized throughout game two, however Jalee McDonald (1-0) walked away with her first win this season.
 
The Pioneers scored early in the first inning with a double from Delaney Boley to bring home Tylar Lane. The Hilltoppers responded with two stolen bases, for the opportunity to score. A single out to left field allowed the Hilltoppers to advance home for a tied ball game.
 
The Hilltoppers did not stop swinging and sent a fly ball out to center field adding an additional run to the board.
 
Coming from behind, the Pioneers trailed the Hilltoppers until the sixth inning. It all came down to strategy as Kristin Rodriguez subbed as a pinch runner for Delaney Boley. After a wild pitch, Kristin Rodriguez advanced to second, and Avery Boley walked to first. Missy Wise took to the plate looking to swing and was struck by the pitch.

The bases were loaded and with a grounder out to second base to bring Kristin Rodriguez home, the Pioneers tied the game in the bottom of the sixth.
 
Rounding out to the top of the seventh inning, the Pioneers needed one run to take the lead. LeBlanc was up to bat and bases were fully loaded, as she heaved a fly ball to the right field. Ciana Rodriguez scored the run for the Pioneers to take the ball game, 3-2.
 
The Pioneers are back in action Saturday, Feb. 18 at noon against the Hilltoppers in game three to close out the series.